Rafael Nadal’s illustrious Olympic journey came to an emotional end when he and Carlos Alcaraz lost their men’s doubles quarterfinals to USA’s Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram at the Paris Olympics 2024. The Spanish pair was defeated 2-6, 4-6, marking what might be Nadal’s final appearance on the iconic Roland Garros courts, where he has claimed 14 French Open Grand Slam titles.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion, alongside Alcaraz, received overwhelming support from the sold-out crowd at Court Philippe Chatrier as they fought to stay in the match. While Nadal has not officially announced his retirement, his ongoing battle with injuries and advancing age raise doubts about the future of his career. Nadal leaves behind a legacy as one of Spain’s most decorated Olympians, boasting a singles gold medal from the 2008 Beijing Olympics and a doubles gold from Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
This was the first time Nadal and Alcaraz teamed up in doubles. After the match, Nadal took a moment to soak in the atmosphere of the court where he once reigned supreme. He waved to the fans, thanked them for their unwavering support, and left Court Philippe Chatrier with a hint of emotion. At 38, Nadal paused one last time near the doorway, joined by Alcaraz, and the duo departed shoulder to shoulder.
